This production was designed with kids in mind. Officially titled Short Shakespeare! Macbeth, its a condensed but certainly not dumbed-down 75-minute version of the original.

Before the show even begins, one of the ensemble members takes a moment to speak to the kids in the crowd. His message: if you are having trouble understanding our words, look to our actions. Listen to us as you listen to a new song. The action certainly held my son's interest: witches, battles, intrigue, madness - it's all part of Macbeth. I had briefly outlined the basic story to him before the show, so I wouldn't have to answer too many whispered questions during. My son noted afterwards, "I really liked it," and judging by the other children's eager questions during the standard Q&A session with the actors post-show, I'd say that this production captured the interest of not only our son.

There is more of Shakespeare to be found in our city: his statue, on the edge of Lincoln Park. Climb into his lap (carefully) for a great photo op. There is also the lovely little garden at the edge of the lagoon in Lincoln Park, where four engraved stones detail my favorite sonnet of all, Sonnet 18, which beings, Shall I compare thee to a summer's day? My son and I have a standing tradition that every time we walk past that little garden, usually on our way to the beach or the zoo, we step onto the stone path surrounded by lovely flowers and read the sonnet together. It seems like forever since the last time we meandered through that little garden, joyfully reading a love poem from 1609, with Pupa in her buggy. Let's hope for good news on Groundhog Day this week, that spring is indeed on its way (and not a blizzard).

 

 

(Check out a great list of memorable Shakespeare quotes here).  

I'll pick a random winner on Thursday. The fine print: Tickets are subject to availability. Valid by phone or in person only. Not valid in combination with other promotions or on previously purchased tickets.

Don't miss Short Shakespeare! Macbeth, now playing at Navy Pier's Chicago Shakespeare Theater, until March 5. Click here for show info and tickets. Remember to validate that costly Navy Pier parking ticket at the theater box office for a 40% discount!

** A special thanks to the Chicago Shakespeare theater, for providing me with tickets to review the show with my family and for hosting this giveaway.